Orcas Fire Department say iPhones help in emergencies

In response to public inquiry regarding the purchase of seven Apple iPhones for OIFD responders, Medical Program Director Dr. Michael Sullivan explained the use of the device as a rescue tool.

At a public Board of Fire Commissioner's meeting Tuesday, May 26, Sullivan related a recent call when responders were able to use the handheld technology to determine a patient did not require transport off the island to a hospital.

The patient, Doug Marshall of West Sound, said, “Fortunately, it wasn’t an emergency situation, but we didn’t know that at the time.”

Marshall woke at 5 a.m. on May 16 with severe nausea and dizziness. Because of his history of high blood pressure, Marshall feared he might be having a heart attack. His wife called 911. Paramedic Jeff Larsen arrived with three volunteer responders. He interviewed Marshall about his symptoms and administered an echocardiogram, or EKG. The data was sent to Sullivan through an iPhone. Sullivan was able to determine Marshall did not require transport.

Because Marshall’s situation was determined not critical he was able to receive follow-up care from his regular doctor.

Speaking of the iPhone, Division Chief Patrick Shepler said, “You can increase the size of the picture of any given cardiac complex, so as to see the subtle nuances necessary for accurate evaluation. We take a picture and hit send and voila – critical care medicine in an austere medical environment.”

According to Financial Officer Rick Anda, seven iPhones were purchased by the department for about $2,240. An off-island transport by MedFlight costs the patient between $6,000 and $12,000.